New Blue Economy Initiative attracts new business

The City of Utica has seen some exciting new developments for recreational pursuits this spring: an extension to the bike/hike trail, a new canoe launch, and a pedestrian bridge making it possible to get across the river.

Nestled along the banks of the Clinton River just south of Hall Road, Heritage Park now boasts a new canoe livery.  Outdoor Escorts Canoe and Kayak Rentals has chosen this site as an extension to their business upstream in Rochester Hills.  Paddlers can hop on  a shuttle ride from Heritage Park up to the starting point, near Yates Cider Mill, and kayak or canoe back down to the parking spot at Heritage Park.  The river affords a leisurely, meandering journey over 6.5 miles for seasoned or novice paddlers alike.

In addition to the canoe facility, a bike/hike trail extension takes travelers from Heritage Park over a new bridge and eventually into the downtown Utica area.  The many restaurants and bars there will enjoy the increased hungry traffic.  Bicyclists and hikers will be able to stop for a beverage or a snack, and continue north to the Macomb Orchard Trail. 

Who says you have to go Up North to enjoy the outdoors? Increasing recreational choices make the City of Utica, and Macomb County, an exciting place to live and work this summer.